Fair warning, this post is a bit unfinished–in the sense that something like eco friendly packaging is always evolving and as time goes on, so will more options for sustainable brands. I’m in a lot of online communities for freelance designers, and the question of where to source sustainable packaging comes up from time to time. Which is great news… it means that more of our clients are considering the environment in their businesses. Having had this resource in mind for a while, I figured it would be easy to filter through my bookmarks and fine tons of sources for all you sustainable shop owners.
Blue Heron Botanicals lip balm tubes are home compostable and made from 100% PCW recycled paper.
What I found, instead, was lots of ethical brands with sustainable packaging to inspire us (see the photos and captions throughout this post!) and lots of companies like noissue and tishwish who have eco conscious solutions for mailing supplies (think compostable mailers) versus actual product packaging.
Bambu reusable face pads in paper containers
So while there are so many sustainable brands leading the way in innovative, zero waste packaging, finding exactly how it’s done is a little more complicated.
noissue custom tissue paper via noissue blog
I love how companies like noissue above, who provide custom packaging solutions for smaller businesses, dedicate part of their website to sharing how those businesses have used their goods and services. I wish all of the other packaging suppliers did this!
Kinship partners with Ocean Waste Practices for their recycled skincare packaging.
Some eco friendly brands like Kinship share their packaging processes on their website, so the consumer can see how “green” they really are.
Sustainable skincare brand SBTRCT uses compostable packaging, and actually tells you what to do with it in each listing. This is a rarity, even in the world of green beauty!
noissue custom tissue paper via noissue blog
tishwish compostable mailer by Santos
See? Lots of custom options for those seeking a sustainable mailing options these days. The cool thing with brands like these is that the consumer can order general mailers themselves, while companies can customize based on certain order minimums.
Good Flower Farm‘s simple paper tubes looks gorgeous with their beautiful branding.
Here’s the list I have going so far for brands that want to both package and ship their product more sustainable.
Eco Enclose offers recycled poly mailers, biodegradable and recycled tissue paper, eco friendly boxes and so much more. They also have custom shipping options.
Sun Grown Packaging is an Oakland based supplier of recyclable & biodegradable packaging for eco conscious brands.
noissue is a popular choice for eco friendly packaging as they offer custom packaging supplies with low order minimums and an easy design process. They offer compostable mailers, stickers, tapes, labels, and more.
If you’re shipping from Australia, rethink packaging‘s compostable mailers are made to disappear within 180 days! I really like that they actually show you how to do it, and not just say something is compostable without offering the resources to keep it out of landfill.
If you’re willing to put in the time, Etsy can be a great resource for sustainable packaging supplies! I can’t say that everyone who claims to follow eco friendly practices is being totally transparent, but with so many small businesses to choose from and the ability to easily message the seller, you can ask any and all questions you need to make sure the materials are up to your standards as an ethical brand.
Ocean Waste Plastics is a global project to remove plastic waste from oceans and rivers while offering recycled packaging solutions to businesses.
Similar to noissue and rethink above, tishwish offers corn-based compostable mailers.
A Better Source isn’t a packaging company, but a directory of sustainable packaging and print resources for branding and design!
Do you know where to find eco friendly packaging for your small business? Let us know your favorite resources so we can add to this guide!
This comprehensive guide will explore the significance of eco-friendly packaging, the various types of materials available, top suppliers in the market, and how to customize your sustainable packaging so that it represents your brand and meets your specific needs.
Finding the right supplier is crucial in ensuring that your eco-friendly packaging materials meet your unique needs while adhering to high-quality and sustainability standards. Below are three top suppliers in the market known for their commitment to providing sustainable packaging options.
Uline offers a wide range of eco-friendly packaging options, including biodegradable and compostable bags, boxes, and mailers. They also have a Green Products section on their website that showcases their eco-friendly options.
Uline is a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions, with a diverse product range that includes eco-friendly materials such as biodegradable and compostable films, recycled and recyclable plastics, and reusable packaging options.
With a strong emphasis on innovation and customer service, Uline is a reliable choice when looking to source environmentally responsible packaging supplies.
In addition to their product offerings, Uline is committed to reducing their environmental impact through various sustainability initiatives. They have implemented a closed-loop recycling system in their manufacturing process, which allows them to reuse waste materials and reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
They also prioritize working with suppliers who share their commitment to sustainability, ensuring that every aspect of their supply chain is environmentally responsible.
EcoEnclose specializes in sustainable packaging solutions and offers a range of options made from recycled and biodegradable materials, including boxes, mailers, and shipping supplies. They also have a custom packaging service that allows you to design your own eco-friendly packaging.
Specializing in green packaging for the food industry, EcoEnclose offers an extensive selection of eco-friendly containers and accessories made from compostable, biodegradable, and recyclable materials.
Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond their product offerings, with environmentally conscious manufacturing processes and initiatives focused on reducing waste and energy consumption.
One of EcoEnclose's unique offerings is their line of edible packaging, which is made from natural ingredients and can be safely consumed along with the food it contains.
This innovative solution eliminates the need for traditional packaging materials and reduces waste, making it a popular choice among environmentally conscious consumers.
Paper Mart offers a variety of eco-friendly packaging options, including biodegradable bags, boxes, and wrapping paper made from recycled materials. They also have a selection of sustainable ribbon and other packaging accessories.
With a focus on design and functionality, Paper Mart is a top supplier of custom-made sustainable packaging solutions. Their offerings range from recyclable shipping boxes and mailers to reusable bags and tape, catering to various industries and product types.
Paper Mart prioritizes working closely with clients to identify the best eco-friendly packaging options for each unique situation, ensuring that sustainability and quality go hand-in-hand.
One of Paper Mart's recent initiatives is their partnership with a local recycling center, where they donate a portion of their profits to support recycling education and infrastructure.
They also offer a recycling program for their customers, where they can send back used packaging materials to be recycled and reused in future products.
Overall, these three suppliers are leading the way in providing eco-friendly packaging solutions that are both high-quality and sustainable. By choosing to work with these companies, businesses can make a positive impact on the environment while also meeting their packaging needs.
As awareness grows about the detrimental effects of human activities on the environment, the push for sustainable solutions has been crucial in multiple industries. The packaging sector is no exception.
Eco-friendly packaging is not only a responsible choice that caters to the increasing demand from environmentally conscious consumers but also delivers long-term benefits to businesses that embrace these sustainable practices.
Conventional packaging materials, such as plastic and polystyrene, are notorious for their negative impact on the environment.
These materials are largely derived from non-renewable resources, take an extremely long time to break down, and often end up in landfills or oceans, causing harm to wildlife and natural habitats.
Plastic waste, in particular, is a major issue. According to a United Nations Environment Programme report, around 300 million tons of plastic waste is produced annually, with a significant portion related to packaging.
This plastic waste can take hundreds of years to decompose, and in the meantime, it can cause significant harm to the environment. For example, plastic waste can entangle and suffocate marine animals, and it can also release toxic chemicals into the soil and water.
The environmental damage caused by traditional packaging materials highlights the urgent need for adopting eco-friendly alternatives. Eco-friendly packaging materials, such as biodegradable plastics, paper, and cardboard, can help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans.
These materials are often made from renewable resources and can break down more easily, reducing their impact on the environment.
Eco-friendly packaging solutions offer numerous advantages, not only to the environment but also to businesses and their customers. Sustainable packaging can help a company improve its brand image and attract environmentally conscious consumers.
It can also lead to cost savings in the long run, as businesses move away from single-use materials and invest in more durable and reusable options.
For consumers, choosing products with sustainable packaging is an impactful way to reduce their carbon footprint and support greener practices in the marketplace.
Additionally, eco-friendly packaging often utilizes innovative designs and materials, providing added value and unique features such as biodegradability, compostability, or reduced weight for shipping.
Another benefit of sustainable packaging is that it can help reduce the amount of energy required to produce and transport products. For example, using lightweight materials for packaging can reduce the amount of fuel needed to transport products, which can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Overall, eco-friendly packaging is an important step towards creating a more sustainable future.
By adopting sustainable practices, businesses can reduce their impact on the environment while also attracting environmentally conscious consumers. Consumers, in turn, can make a difference by choosing products with sustainable packaging and supporting companies that prioritize sustainability.
As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, sustainable packaging options are gaining popularity. There are numerous eco-friendly packaging materials available, each offering distinct benefits in terms of environmental impact, versatility, and appeal.
Below, we've outlined some popular categories to consider when looking for eco-friendly packaging options.
Biodegradable packaging materials are designed to break down naturally over time, posing less threat to the environment compared to their non-biodegradable counterparts.
This is because they are made from natural materials that can be easily broken down by microorganisms in the environment. Examples of these materials include paper, cardboard, and certain types of bioplastics.
Compostable materials take eco-friendliness a step further, as they fully decompose into nutrient-rich soil when placed in composting conditions.
This makes them an ideal option for organic waste, such as food packaging. Some popular compostable materials are PLA (polylactic acid) bioplastic, bamboo, and bagasse (a byproduct of sugarcane processing).
It's important to note that not all biodegradable materials are compostable, and not all compostable materials are suitable for home composting. It's essential to check the packaging's labeling to ensure proper disposal.
Recycled packaging materials are made from post-consumer or post-industrial waste, reducing the demand for virgin resources and mitigating the environmental impact of waste disposal. Examples include recycled paper, cardboard, and plastic.
Using recycled materials also reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans.
Recyclable materials, on the other hand, can be repurposed after use, creating a closed-loop system that minimizes waste generation.
A product's packaging should be easily recyclable, with clearly labeled recycling instructions to encourage proper disposal by consumers. Glass, aluminum, and certain plastics, such as PET and HDPE, are examples of commonly recycled materials.
However, it's important to note that not all recyclable materials are recycled equally. Some materials, such as mixed plastics, are harder to recycle and may end up in landfill or incineration facilities.
Reusable packaging is designed to be long-lasting and durable, allowing for multiple uses over its lifespan. By cutting down on single-use packaging, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental footprint and potentially save on packaging costs.
Examples of reusable packaging include cloth bags, durable plastic containers, and refillable glass bottles.
When designing reusable packaging, it's essential to consider the product's lifespan and the materials used. The packaging should be sturdy enough to withstand multiple uses and made from materials that are easily recyclable at the end of their lifespan.
Choosing eco-friendly packaging materials is an essential step towards creating a more sustainable future. By selecting biodegradable, compostable, recycled, recyclable, or reusable packaging, businesses can reduce their environmental impact and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
It's important to consider the product's lifespan, the materials used, and the proper disposal methods to ensure that the packaging is truly sustainable.
Once you have chosen your eco-friendly packaging materials, it's essential to customize them according to your brand identity and product requirements. This ensures that your packaging effectively communicates your values while efficiently serving its intended purpose.
But, did you know that customizing your packaging can also help you stand out from your competitors and increase brand loyalty? By incorporating unique designs and messaging, you can create a memorable and personalized experience for your customers.
Customizing your sustainable packaging with your brand colors, logo, and messaging is crucial for creating a memorable and cohesive customer experience.
Work with your chosen supplier to identify the best printing options for your materials, and consider incorporating sustainable messaging to highlight your company's commitment to environmental responsibility.
This can include using eco-friendly ink, adding recycling or composting instructions, and showcasing any relevant certifications.
Moreover, you can also consider adding a personalized touch to your packaging by including handwritten notes or using unique and creative packaging designs. This can create a lasting impression on your customers and help build a strong brand identity.
Selecting the appropriate eco-friendly packaging for each of your products is essential to ensuring their protection during shipping and handling while minimizing excess waste.
Evaluate factors such as size, shape, weight, and fragility when choosing the right packaging materials, and work with your supplier to develop custom solutions that suit your specific needs.
For instance, if you sell fragile items, you can opt for cushioned packaging materials such as biodegradable foam or recycled paper. Alternatively, if you sell food products, you can use compostable packaging materials that can be easily disposed of without harming the environment.
While aesthetics and sustainability are important, it’s also vital that your eco-friendly packaging is capable of withstanding the rigors of shipping and handling.
Collaborate with your supplier to test different materials and designs, ensuring that they provide optimum durability and function along with their environmental benefits.
Additionally, you can also consider incorporating features such as tamper-evident seals or resealable closures to ensure the safety and freshness of your products during transportation and storage.
In conclusion, adopting eco-friendly packaging is a significant step forward for businesses looking to make a positive impact on the environment, enhance their brand image, and cater to an increasingly conscious consumer base. By understanding the importance of sustainable packaging, exploring various material options, partnering with reputable suppliers, and customizing your designs, you can successfully integrate eco-friendly packaging into your business operations and contribute to a greener future for all.
If you are looking for other articles business related, then these articles are a must see:
These posts will help you learn more about first steps when creating your own brand, so you can improve your skills.